Dodgers' Record Signing Moves to IL Amid Brutal Meltdown

The Los Angeles Dodgers have placed closer Edwin Diaz on the injured list, as reported by Katie Woo of The Athletic. The move comes after a difficult stretch for the three-time All-Star, who signed a massive $69 million deal—the largest annual average value for a reliever—during the offseason. Diaz has struggled this season, allowing uncharacteristic runs and walks despite a strong start to the year.

An elbow injury in April derailed his promising beginning, forcing him to undergo surgery and return from the mound late in July. Since his return, Diaz has been inconsistent, posting a 15.88 ERA in August and allowing multiple runs in his last three outings. In a recent interview, Diaz expressed his desire to do what's best for the team, acknowledging his struggles.

As a result, the Dodgers have recalled right-handed starter Emmet Sheehan from Triple-A Oklahoma City to bolster their starting rotation. With Diaz sidelined, the team will look to other relievers in their bullpen, such as Tanner Scott, Alex Vesia, Jack Dreyer, and Evan Phillips, all of whom have shown promise and can provide relief to the team's needs.